Top 11 Reasons That Prevent People From Moving Home

Many things can prevent people from moving home.

If you’re considering a move but keep putting it off, you’re certainly not alone.

At GoodMove Removals & Storage, we’ve helped thousands of families and individuals across Essex, Suffolk, and the South East relocate. Over the years, we’ve seen first-hand the many reasons people hesitate to move — even when they really want to.

From financial concerns to emotional attachments, numerous very real barriers can prevent people from taking their next step. If you’re stuck in limbo, this guide breaks down the top 11 reasons people delay moving house — and how you can overcome them.

1. The Cost of Moving Feels Too High

Stamp duty, legal fees, estate agent costs, and removals expenses all add up and can be one of the tops reasons that prevent people from moving home.

The average move in 2025 costs between £6,000 and £12,000 — and in areas like Chelmsford, Braintree, or Colchester, it can be even higher.

Typical moving costs include:

• Stamp Duty Land Tax
• Estate agent fees (1%–3%)
• Conveyancing/legal fees
• Surveys and EPC
• Removals and storage

Solution:

• Use a moving cost calculator to budget properly
• Shop around for fixed-fee estate agents and removals companies
• Look for savings on stamp duty or reduced fees in slower markets

2. Moving House Is Too Stressful

Surveys consistently show that moving house is one of the most stressful life events.

Sorting, packing, forwarding addresses — it’s no small task.

Solution:

• Use a moving checklist (like our Moving House Checklist)
• Choose a removals company that offers packing, disassembly, and even storage
• Start early, break the job into weekly goals, and stay organised

3. The Process Feels Too Complicated

Mortgages, estate agents, surveys, chains — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The fear of things going wrong often leads to inaction.

Solution:

• Work with trusted local professionals who can explain things clearly
• Break the journey down into steps: valuation, mortgage, offer, survey, exchange, completion
• Ask questions — even basic ones — and keep records of everything

4. Lack of Homes Available

The UK housing shortage has made finding the perfect property more challenging, especially in popular Essex towns such as Rayleigh, Maldon, and Brentwood.

Solution:

• Register early with multiple agents and set up alerts on major portals
• Be flexible on location or specific features
• Consider alternatives like new-build developments or shared ownership

5. You’ve Lived There Too Long

Emotional ties to a home are strong, especially if you’ve been there for decades. The idea of leaving behind memories, routines, and familiarity can be daunting.

Solution:

• Focus on what the move will bring: better space, lifestyle, or investment potential
• Start with viewings to get excited about possibilities
• Remind yourself that a new chapter doesn’t erase the old one

6. You Love Your Neighbourhood

If the local park, schools, and coffee shop are part of your daily life, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else.

Solution:

• Consider moving within the same postcode or catchment area
• Search for homes on the same street or within walking distance
• You can change your home, not the community that makes it special

7. Concerns About Estate Agents

Many hesitate to move because they’ve heard horror stories about hidden costs, poor communication, or pressure selling from agents.

Solution:

• Research thoroughly — use independent reviews and ask for recommendations
• Get quotes from 2–3 agents before deciding
• Ask for fee transparency and service guarantees

8. The Property You Want Is Too Expensive

Rising property prices across the South East make it feel like dream homes are out of reach.

Solution:

• Speak to a mortgage advisor to fully understand your borrowing potential
• Set up alerts for price reductions or slower market areas
• Consider up-and-coming areas just outside your preferred location

9. You Don’t Want to Leave Family

Being close to loved ones is a primary reason people stay put — especially when family support networks are nearby.

Solution:

• Look for homes within a 30–60 minutes’ drive
• Plan regular visits and video calls
• Keep in mind that moving doesn’t mean cutting ties — and you might even be happier with more space or independence

10. Mortgage Approval Is a Barrier

If you’re upgrading or relocating after a significant life event, obtaining mortgage approval may not be straightforward.

Solution:

• Check and improve your credit score using tools like Experian or ClearScore
• Register to vote and avoid applying for new credit in the 6–12 months before applying
• Work with a mortgage broker who can find lenders that match your profile

11. You’d Rather Renovate Than Move

Renovating instead of relocating has gained popularity — especially if you love your location but dislike your layout.

Solution:

• Compare costs: extensions and loft conversions can easily exceed moving expenses
• Consider whether your current home meets your future needs
• If a major upgrade still leaves you short on space or access, moving might be the smarter long-term option

Ready to Make Your Move?

Now that you have a better understanding of how to overcome the obstacles that prevent people from moving home, it’s time to start planning your move.

GoodMove Removals & Storage has been helping people move home across Essex, Suffolk, and the South East for over 35 years.

We provide:

• Local and long-distance removals
• Professional packing services
• Secure storage options
• A fully insured, BAR-accredited team
• Transparent, no-surprise pricing

Whether you’re just starting to plan or ready to book a move date, we’re here to make the process stress-free.

Call us today or get your free moving quote online now.

Make it a GoodMove.